Harley Davidson's handsome Cafe Racer was a contradictory machine inasmuch as it was superbly styled - with considerable input from Willy G Davidson himself - but with a specification that relied on too many stock engine and chassis parts beneath the skin. With barely 60 bhp available from its unmodified 9:1 engine, and weighing in excess of 500lb, the net result was neither nippy or nimble, especially compared with Ducati's 900SS or the Moto Guzzi Le Mans. Kitted from the outset with 7-spoke Morris wheels, and a bikini fairing, the XLCR was sometimes described in USA's deep south as an "Ex-cel-cee-ar!". Production unfortunately ceased in 1978, after just under 2000 examples had been manufactured, which explains the rare sightings of this unique model (particularly in Europe) today.

The all black CR was imported in 1990 from the USA, where the vendor reports the majority of its 25000 miles were clocked. In his ownership since 2006 it has been quite sparingly used, having previously undergone a 'refreshment course' by Fred Warr some 2500 miles ago. It was at this point that 'PHU 650R' received an upgraded suspension system, drilled discs, a set of tapered roller head races, and an epoxy-coated frame. Pictured on the bench for cleaning purposes the machine is offered with Registration documents and an expired MOT certificate.

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